One-Step Equations with Addition & Subtraction

Learn how to solve one-step equations with addition and subtraction by watching the following video.

Vocabulary used in this lesson:

• Variable
• Unknown
• Solution
• Inverse operation

Tips:

When solving a one-step equation, we must isolate the variable on one side of the equation. For this purpose, we will perform the inverse of whatever operation is being done to the variable on both sides of the equation.

Example 1:

The variable in this equation is y. The operation is addition. The inverse operation is subtraction. To isolate y on the left side of the equation, we have to subtract 51 on both sides of the equation. The solution is 42.

Example 2:

The variable in this equation is x. The operation is subtraction. The inverse operation is addition. To isolate x on the left side of the equation, we have to add 33 on both sides of the equation. The solution is 180.

Independent practice:

To learn more about solving one-step equations with addition and subtraction, take this test or play a fun basketball math game.

Test your knowledge.

Play a fun game.